Step-by-Step Preparation Checklist

Planning ahead is crucial for maximising your visit to 100% Optical. Here are my top tips to ensure you get the most from the event and avoid any last-minute stress:

1. Secure Your Registration 

Registering early ensures you’ll have access to the full agenda as soon as it becomes available, as well as regular email updates including the latest CPD news. 

2. Arrange Your Accommodation & Travel

As soon as you’ve decided the dates you’ll be attending 100% Optical, consider booking accommodation, as the options located at the ExCeL book up quickly. Many attendees choose to stay directly around the ExCeL for convenient access to 100% Optical and to make the most of networking opportunities with fellow optical industry peers in the area post-show. Popular hotel options include the Novotel London ExCeL & The DoubleTree by Hilton London ExCeL. If you’re looking for dining options in the area Zero Sette and Nakhon Thai are personal favourites.

If you’re travelling to London by train, consider pre-booking in advance to secure the best rates. Monitor travel updates and have a back-up plan in case of any travel disruptions caused by industrial action etc that may impact your travel.

If flying, London City Airport is the most convenient airport, located just a few minutes from ExCeL London. The introduction of the Elizabeth Line has improved connectivity to Heathrow Airport (LHR) and central London.

3. Plan Your CPD and Learning Sessions

100% Optical offers a robust program of CPD-accredited lectures, workshops, and seminars. There are options tailored to all roles from optometrists to dispensing opticians, ophthalmologists and beyond. Topics for 2026 are likely to include:

• Latest advances in ocular disease management
• Digital innovation in optometry and dispensing
• Practice growth strategies and patient experience
• Myopia Management
• Clinical Negligence

Once you’ve registered to attend the event, you’ll receive updates on the session schedule as soon as it’s released. Add your chosen seminars to your calendar and set reminders, some sessions fill quickly, and capacity may be limited. If you’re working toward specific CPD credits, map out a plan to ensure you meet requirements. 

4. Research Exhibitors and Products

The exhibition hall is vast with over 250 brands, so identifying key brands and products ahead of time is essential. Use the online exhibitor directory to browse new launches, equipment demonstrations, and services offered. Shortlist the companies you want to visit and consider contacting them to pre-arrange meetings, this can help you bypass busy stands and maximise your time as although it may seem like a long day it flies by, pre-booking meetings ensures you get dedicated time with the suppliers you want to meet.

For those interested in optical practice management software, lab automation, or online marketing solutions for eyecare professionals, you can book a meeting with the Ocuco team.

5. Leverage Networking Opportunities 

100% Optical is as much about meeting peers and industry leaders as it is about discovering new products. The event features:

• Opening Night Reception: celebrate the start of the show with fellow attendees and exhibitors
• Love Eyewear Awards: honouring excellence and innovation across categories such as eyewear accessory of the year, luxury frame of the year and more.
• Social lounges and sponsored meetups

6. Pack Strategically

Comfort meets professionalism at 100% Optical. Choose comfortable attire that you’re comfortable in as it’ll be a busy few days of moving between sessions and stands; supportive footwear is a must, as the venue is expansive. Essentials to bring include:

• Business cards and QR codes for digital contact sharing
• A lightweight, durable bag for samples, brochures, and giveaways
• Charged mobile devices and a back-up power bank
• Notepad or tablet for jotting down insights and contact details

7. Define Your Objectives 

Set objectives before you arrive, as it’ll help you navigate the show’s many attractions. Consider what your priorities are:

• Seeking new suppliers or products for your eyecare practice?
• Looking to gain CPD credits or specialist knowledge?
• Focused on networking or business growth?
• Exploring career opportunities in the optical sector?

Write down two or three key goals before you arrive. This will help you stay on track throughout the event and prioritise sessions, meetings, and experiences that align with your ambitions.